Jing Dian 7542 Sheng Pu-erh Tea 2022, 150g | Dayi (Menghai Tea Factory)

The 7542 is the most reproduced raw pu-erh recipe in the world, and the one most often used as the reference point against which other sheng is judged. The numbers tell its story: the recipe dates to 1975, the 4 marks the leaf-blend grade, and the 2 is the factory code for Menghai Tea Factory, the house behind the Dayi brand. This is the 2022 pressing of that classic blend, in the traditional 150 g cake.

The character is vigorous and built for development. Young and energetic, it opens with bright floral notes and a clear, honeyed sweetness, carried by the firm bitterness that defines authentic 7542. That bitterness does not stay. It converts into a strong returning sweetness (huigan) and a cooling sensation in the throat that lingers well past each sip.

The liquor is bright golden-yellow, clear and thick, with an oily texture that coats the mouth. Across infusions the astringency settles and rounds out, while the aromatics deepen and the sweetness grows more pronounced. It rewards a patient session and holds its structure through many steeps.

This is sheng with backbone, sold young on purpose. Drinkable now if you enjoy the directness of fresh raw pu-erh, but its real value is as a long-term aging cake. A 7542 is the standard most collectors lay down first, and this 2022 gives you a benchmark blend to follow as it matures over the years.

Tea profile

📖 Brewing guide: Learn how to brew Chinese tea and gongfu cha properly to get the best flavour and aroma.

🍃 New to pu-erh? Learn the difference between Shu Pu-erh and Sheng Pu-erh and find the pu-erh that suits your taste.